National Professional Science Master's Association

The National Professional Science Master's Association (NPSMA) is the membership association for the PSM initiative. Itis a collaborative of Professional Science Master's (PSM) program directors, faculty, administrators, industry representatives, alumni, and students that supports PSM initiatives. It engages businesses, industries, nonprofit organizations, governmental agencies, and trade associations in the development of graduate programs and internship and job placement opportunities for PSM students and graduates.

The NPSMA serves as the focal point for the collective interaction of the nation's PSM programs with organizations that have a stake in graduate education in science, mathematics, and technology. The NPSMA initiates and encourages these exchanges by holding workshops and conferences, sharing PSM policy developments, and, most importantly, connecting the various constituents of the PSM. Click Here to see our Overview Presentation.

The Professional Science Master’s (PSM) program is a two-year graduate program designed to fill a management need for technology-based companies, governmental agencies, and non-profit organizations. Students pursue advanced training in science, while simultaneously developing valued business skills. Professional Science Master’s programs combine rigorous study in science or mathematics with coursework in management, policy, or law. Professional Science Master’s programs emphasize writing and communication skills, and many include project management. Most PSM programs require a final project or team experience, as well as an internship in a business or public sector enterprise.

Developed in concert with industry, PSM programs are designed to dovetail into present and future professional career opportunities. Graduates are equipped to manage the breakthroughs that are created by the research teams. They can interact comfortably and intelligently with scientific researchers and business managers, especially in the marketing, finance, and legal departments. Courses such as policy or regulation are often included in programs designed for those interested in working in governmental agencies.

The Professional Science Master’s (PSM) programs serve the needs of scientists who want to improve their skills in business. The PSM program is designed to fill a management need for technology-based companies, governmental agencies, and non-profit organizations. The business training is complemented by advanced science training in pertinent fields depending on the degree science/engineering focus.

The PSM National Office (PSMNO) manages the PSM affiliation process for institutions wishing to seek recognition of their master’s programs as Professional Science Master’s. Guidelines for the PSM affiliation process can be found on the PSMNO website: www.professionalsciencemasters.org.